Lingo Shorts
Master native English comprehension, one new word at a time
Words to learn
100% Free • Web & iOS
One New Word at a Time
Every video introduces exactly one new word, mixed with words you already know. You understand the story instantly.
Slowly Increasing Difficulty
Videos start short and climb slowly in length and complexity. You improve naturally without feeling the struggle.
All the way to native comprehension
From your very first word to understanding full TV shows. No flashcards. No drills-just a direct path watching videos
The Science
Backed by decades of research in second language acquisition. Lingo Shorts is based on the work of many, but 2 in particular are important names to know.
Stephen Krashen
The theory of second language acquisition
Stephen Krashen is best known for the Input Hypothesis, which argues that we acquire language in only one way: when we understand messages. This is called 'Comprehensible Input'.
He suggests that if you provide enough understandable input, grammar and vocabulary will be acquired naturally without conscious study. This is the foundation of the Lingo Shorts method.
Paul Nation
Vocabulary acquisition research
Paul Nation is famous for the 'Four Strands' of language learning, which suggests a balanced course needs Meaning-focused Input, Meaning-focused Output, Language-focused Learning, and Fluency Development.
He also identified vocabulary size as the main bottleneck to fluency, emphasizing the importance of high-frequency word lists. Lingo Shorts focuses on the first strand (Input) and uses his frequency lists to ensure you learn the most useful words first.
Paul Nation's 4 Strands of Language Learning
We focus entirely on the first and most important one.
Meaning-Focused Input
Lingo Shorts
Meaning-Focused Output
Speaking
Language-Focused Learning
Grammar/Study
Fluency Development
Practice
"Lingo Shorts is not for grammar drills, speaking practice, or tests. We are a pure Input Engine."
We cover 100% of the vocabulary and listening acquisition (Strand 1) so that when you do go to speak or study grammar elsewhere, you actually have the words to do it. We handle the input; you handle the output.
What we are.
(And what we aren't).What you'll get
- 100% of the vocabulary you need.
- Native listening skill
- Our Job: We prepare your brain for the real world.
What you won't
- Speaking practice (use an AI tutor!)
- Grammar drills (ask AI or find a good textbook)
- Your job: go out and use what you've learned
"We provide 70% of the journey—the input. The rest is up to you."
About the creators
moar pets!
Jason Sharp
From a small town, and found his way to China. Became a translator, then had a dream to change the way we learn language.
"Duolingo brought the joy of language learning to the world. I want to bring the joy of 2nd language fluency to everyone"
Loki
Loki is team support, providing morale and always on demand for food and scratches.